Delhi High Court Orders Immediate Investigation Into Missing Children Cases

The Delhi High Court has directed the Delhi Police to initiate investigations into missing children cases immediately, without waiting for the standard 24-hour period. A division bench comprising Justices Pratibha M Singh and Amit Sharma emphasized that the first 24 hours are crucial in tracing missing children and that delaying action can reduce the chances of a positive outcome.

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The court cited the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) issued by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, which mandates prompt action in cases of missing children. The bench stressed that the 24-hour waiting period is unnecessary and potentially harmful, and directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure that all police stations initiate investigations immediately upon receiving a complaint.

The court’s directive came while hearing a habeas corpus petition filed by Vinod, whose minor daughter went missing on February 19, 2024. Vinod alleged that the Nangloi Police Station asked him to wait for 24 hours before lodging a complaint, delaying the investigation. The court has handed over the investigation to the Anti-Human Trafficking Unit (Crime Branch) and directed them to file a status report within a week.

The Delhi High Court’s order aims to ensure swift action in missing children cases, increasing the chances of reunifying families and preventing potential harm to the children.